Additional hearings have been scheduled on the state's proposal to extend the ban on open burning statewide.
State Department of Environmental Conservation officials said the hearings and an extension of the written comment deadline were an effort to expand opportunities for public input.
The proposed rule would ban most open burning statewide. In addition, the revised rule would limit agricultural burning to naturally grown products such as vines, branches, leaves and stubble.
It will also specifically allow such things as fire training, small cooking and camp fires, as well as ceremonial fires.
The deadline for submitting written statements regarding the proposed amendments, which originally was July 10, has been extended to 5 p.m. Aug. 14. Any comments that people wish be included in the record should be submitted by e-mail at 215fires@gw.dec.state.ny.us, officials said.
The additional hearings are:
ä Aug. 4, public hearing: 5 to 8 p.m.; information session: 4 to 5 p.m. at Herkimer County Community College, Robert McLaughlin College Center, Hummel Corporate Center, 100 Reservoir Road, Herkimer.
ä Aug. 5, public hearing: 5 to 8 p.m.; information session: 4 to 5 p.m. at SUNY Canton, Richard W. Miller Campus Center, Kingston Theater and Lobby, Canton.
ä Aug. 6, public hearing: 5 to 8 p.m.; information session: 4 to 5 p.m. at Jamestown Community College, Training Center, Room 117, 10785 Bennett Road (Route 60), Dunkirk.
ä Aug. 7, public hearing: 5 to 8 p.m.; information session: 4 to 5 p.m. at Allegany County Office Building, Legislative Board Chambers, 7 Court St., Belmont.
At each hearing, people who wish to make a statement will be invited to speak. Officials have requested that oral statements also be submitted in writing.
For information, write to Robert Stanton, P.E., DEC Division of Air Resources, 625 Broadway, Albany NY 12233; call (518) 402-8403; or e-mail 215fires@gw.dec.state.ny.us.
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